Premium

Dueling lawsuits threaten future of Memphis’ historic Ardent Studios

By , Daily Memphian Updated: June 05, 2026 6:54 AM CT | Published: June 05, 2026 4:00 AM CT

Dueling lawsuits combined with charges of fraud and theft have left famed Ardent Studios, a Memphis music history icon that has seen some of the biggest music acts walk through its doors, facing an uncertain future.

Ardent, which has hosted such acts as ZZ Top, the Replacements, Isaac Hayes, Bob Dylan, the Allman Brothers, R.E.M., the Gin Blossoms and many more, has been closed since January, confirmed Jeff Land, the attorney representing owner Ardent owner Betty Fry.

The building is locked, the parking lot is empty and no music is being made there.

This is an excerpt of this story. To read more, please click here and subscribe.

Topics

Ardent Studios Jody Stephens Big Star recording studio John Fry Subscriber Only

Thank you for reading The Daily Memphian. Your support is critical.

Did you know we are a 501(c)3 nonprofit news organization? We rely on a mix of revenue from subscriptions (50%), advertising, events and other earned income (25%) and fundraising (25%).

Please consider making a fully tax-deductible donation or other contribution to The Daily Memphian today. 

👉🏽 Your subscription pays for you to read all our journalism.

👉🏽 Your donation powers the work we do to reach everyone else with the news.

We believe an informed Memphis is a better Memphis. If you agree, join our growing list of donors now.

Jody Callahan

Jody Callahan graduated with degrees in journalism and economics from what is now known as the University of Memphis. He has covered news in Memphis for more than 25 years.


Comments

Want to comment on our stories? If you’re a subscriber, scroll down to the comments. If you’re not a subscriber, only paid subscribers can add their thoughts, so subscribe now. Our commenting policy can be viewed here